Women in Horror Month Interview with TV Fanatic Girl

Category: Once upon a Time

“I’m a fan of every part of you” (Hook to Emma). Happy Saturday TV fans! I invested quite a bit of time over the years into watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time and one of the main reasons why I love the show so much is because I fell in love with the characters and found myself constantly rooting for different ships to make it against all odds.

OUAT does an excellent job of providing us with nostalgia from some of our favorite fairy-tales, but the writers were never afraid to shake things up and present us with a ship that we may have never predicted or some that initially seemed unconventional. However, once we detected the undeniable sparks between some of these characters, it was quite easy to imagine their stories intertwining.

Villains got their first glimpse at what true love looked like and learned that it was never too late to change and that it was possible to still achieve a happy ending. While some ships supported each other no matter what, others had to face many trials and obstacles, testing their love for one another constantly.

Some of our favorite ships have been ripped apart brutally and while some were lucky enough to experience their happy ending together, others were not able to do so, but their love still remained unchanging, teaching them to hold on to the goodness still within them and to open their hearts to everyone around them. An OTP or one true pairing is difficult to find, but these characters below certainly achieved this title, making us believe that true love is possible but it is far from easy to hold on to.

These characters learned never to take their love for granted and would do anything for the other. Their love for one another helped shaped them into who they were meant to be, inspiring hope throughout their epic stories. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the series yet. My top five ships from Once Upon a Time are:

5

Rumple & Belle

Ship name: Rumbelle

“But that monster is gone. And the man beneath him may be flawed… but we all are. And I love you for it. Sometimes the best book has the dustiest jacket. And sometimes the best teacup is chipped.”

When I first learned that Rumple was also the “beast” in Belle’s story, I was not sure how I felt about this. Rumple had already been presented as a major villain and it made sense that he would also fit right in as a “beast” or a “monster” in another story or realm, but I wasn’t sure if Rumple would truly be able to shed his wicked ways and learn to love Belle. However, I changed my mind when I saw Belle looking at Rumple with pure love and acceptance.

When they danced together, it was like the story of “Beauty and the Beast” opened up a new chapter filled with a chance at redemption. Rumple was one of the most devious villains on the show and somehow Belle was able to get through to him and show him that there was a different path that he could take; a path that led to love and a family, even if they had a rocky journey ahead of them.

Belle always saw the good in Rumple but was hurt many times by him as well when he allowed the darkness to consume him, putting his agenda above his love for Belle without always realizing it. In season 7, Rumple was desperately trying to rid himself of the Dark One’s dagger and get back to Belle so that they could be together, but ultimately realized that this might never happen and sacrificed himself to save his friends and family.

Rumple’s actions were truly selfless and he was greeted by Belle in limbo so that they could finally be together always and forever.

4

Snow & Charming

Ship name: Snowing

“True love isn’t easy, but it must be fought for because once you find it, it can never be replaced.”

This list would not be complete without including Snow White and Prince Charming. When the series first began, there was a lot of focus on these two and it was adorable to see their “meet cute” when Snow got caught in the net by Charming. Out of all of the ships on the series, Snow and Charming are the most stable and constant. No matter what was thrown at them, they always found their way back to one another and they never gave up on each other.

Even when Charming didn’t remember Snow in Storybrooke, their love was able to seep through, ultimately reminding them that they did belong together. Emma is the daughter of Snow and Charming and their unconditional love for her made them even stronger. While their story was often presented as less complicated than some of the other ships on this list, their love was selfless, kind, and unwavering.

3

Regina & Robin

Ship name: Outlaw Queen

“Our story was so short. Doesn’t make it any less epic.”

Out of all of the ships on this list, I have to say that I was initially rooting for this couple above all others. Regina started out as an evil queen with only coldness and revenge in her heart. However, her feelings for Robin were beautiful and heartwarming. They were never lacking passion and it seemed like Robin was the absolute perfect match for Regina.

It was predicted that Regina’s true love was a mysterious man with a lion tattoo and when this was revealed as Robin, it was impossible not to root for these two to end up together. Robin was able to see that Regina had clearly changed and was ready to become a good person. Robin sacrificed himself to protect Regina just shortly after they talked about their future together, which made this moment even more heartbreaking. Even though Regina and Robin did not end up together, Robin was always with her in her heart.

In the series finale, Regina was dreaming and Robin visited her. She told him how much she missed him and explained she may be joining him. Regina clearly remembered being a villain and started to think that maybe this was what she deserved. However, the goodness in her was articulated by Robin, who told her that she was able to move her dark actions to the light and that was all because of her. He told her that “her life is proof that no one’s path is set.” Robin provided Regina with the strength she needed when it seemed like the world was against her.

When he revealed to her how epic their love was, this was one of the most beautiful moments on the show. While it seemed beyond unfair that these two could not be together, we know that Robin would always be in Regina’s heart, reminding her that her new path is one of goodness and love.

2

Alice & Robin

Ship name: Mad Archer

“I told you we’d always know each other.”

Alice and Robin, also known as Tilly and Margot, possessed a pure and beautiful love. Fans could not help falling in love with these two, as they reminded us what true love is all about and fans are still talking about them now. Fan fiction and requests for a Mad Archer spin-off are everywhere and I have to say that I absolutely agree. There is just something about Alice and Robin that bring us right back to the first moment where we may have experienced love ourselves.

I’m talking about those over-the-top feelings of butterflies in your stomach and smiling constantly for no reason at all. When Robin/Margot awkwardly asked Alice/Tilly out on a date and explained she was wearing lip gloss, it was impossible not to identify with these lovely ladies. Their shyness and awkwardness made them even more lovable and it’s like we were along for their journey, as they tried to get to know one another and shared their dreams and secrets. Both Alice and Robin had a strong sense of doing what’s right and supporting family and friends no matter what, which made their relationship that much more powerful.

As individual characters they were remarkable, but as a team they were truly something special. When they finally remembered each other and shared a passionate kiss, it was like you could see the imaginary fireworks going off around them, as fans everywhere cheered. While we know that they are engaged at the end of the series, their story is far from over and it would be amazing to see a wedding between these two. After all, Nook should get the chance to walk “Starfish” down the aisle.

1

Hook & Emma

Ship name: Captain Swan

“When I win your heart Emma, and I will win it. It won’t be because of any trickery. It will be because you want me.”

My number one ship has to go to Hook and Emma. When the devilishly handsome Captain Hook sailed into our hearts on OUAT, he initially was out for revenge. While Hook innocently flirted with Emma from the start, his love for her allowed him to grow as a character and to learn from his wicked past. Hook was always used to taking the easy way out and making decisions based on how well it suited him.

Emma changed this perspective, however; proving that he could be a selfless man. When Hook realized his strong feelings for Emma, he even backed down and explained that she should be with Neal so that Henry could have his family all together. Hook truly loved Emma at this point, but was willing to sacrifice this so that she could find happiness.

Later, when they did end up together, Emma consumed the power of the Dark One and evil corrupted her heart. The only thing that could bring her back to goodness was Hook’s love for her and his willingness to sacrifice himself to save her. Emma and Hook had one of the most beautiful relationships on television and their wedding at the end of season 6 was touching and heartwarming. Hook’s love for Emma transformed him from a villain into a hero one can be proud of, who would never stop fighting for the one he loves.

In the series finale, we finally got to see Hook and Emma again along with their beautiful baby daughter, Hope. The name of their child is absolutely perfect, symbolizing what kept them going strong all this time. Emma and Hook never lost hope in each other and it’s wonderful to see that they are starting the next chapter of their lives together. And so they lived happily ever after…

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to share some of your own thoughts and comments on your favorite ships on OUAT. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Happy Saturday TV Fans! For today, I started to really think about all of the heroes and villains on Once Upon a Time.One of the reasons why I truly love this show is because it redefines these roles from traditional fairy-tales. Heroes we root for are far from perfect and villains transform into unlikely heroes, rewriting their own stories in the process. Who says that villains can’t achieve a happy ending?

It’s never too late to change and embrace the goodness within that has been stifled by past actions and circumstances. While some villains are never able to redeem themselves, others have surpassed our expectations, sacrificing everything for the greater good. Over the seven seasons of OUAT, we have witnessed some of our favorite heroes fall from grace and some of the most notorious villains accept their true destiny, saving the day and reminding us that we all have the potential to do the right thing.

Even though some of their roles have been redefined, one cannot forget how truly “wicked” they once were, proving to be formidable foes who threaten to extinguish all of the good in Storybrooke and other realms.

Whether they possess dark magic, a knack for manipulation, or an impressive evil cackle, these villains have paved their way into my top 5, refusing to make it easy for the good guys. After all, where is the fun in that? Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the series yet. My top 5 villains from Once Upon a Time are:

5

Captain Hook

While most of us will think of Captain Hook as a hero, we can’t forget how he started out on the show. Captain Hook was a villain who was purely out for revenge. The “crocodile” is none other than Rumplestiltskin and is responsible for cutting off Captain’s Hook hand and for killing his love, Milah. Milah was married to Rumplestiltskin, but we learn that she and Captain Hook were lovers, which only enraged Rumplestiltskin even further. Captain Hook started off as a pirate looking for adventure. He may have had selfish tendencies, but he didn’t truly become a villain until he became obsessed with his quest for vengeance.

Captain Hook teams up with Cora, but soon learns that there is more to life than revenge. While it’s difficult for Hook to let go of this, his growing feelings for Emma show him that perhaps he can go down a different path…or sail down a different coast. Captain Hook is redeemed by his selfless and pure love for Emma. He becomes a hero one can be proud of and sheds his treachery in the process.

4

Zelena

Otherwise known as “The Wicked Witch of the West,” we learn that Zelena is Regina’s half-sister. Zelena was abandoned when she was a child and never really found anyone who could truly accept her. Rumplestiltskin taught her how to channel her rage and magic, which turned her into a powerful witch.

Zelena’s wickedness comes from her jealousy. When she goes to see the wizard, she sees Rumple stating that Regina is his best student and her jealousy escalates so much that it turns her skin green with envy. Zelena is a primary villain for most of the show, but she eventually forms a sisterly bond with Regina and learns what love is.

Even though Zelena is able to redeem herself, her side comments and puns still have a “wicked” quality that make fans adore her even more. Zelena may be fighting on the side of good now, but that doesn’t mean she needs to suppress her opinions and sense of humor in the process.

3

The Evil Queen

After watching the entire series, it’s difficult to lump Regina Mills with the Evil Queen, especially since her evil half gets separated from her later on. However, everyone has a past and Regina definitely has done her fair share of evil. The Evil Queen focused most of her revenge on Snow White and made it a priority to become the most powerful of all. She is known for ripping out the hearts of her enemies to control them, proving to be ruthless and coldblooded.

In Storybrooke, Regina is the mayor and is not afraid to showcase her “power” for all to see. However, Regina’s love for her adopted son, Henry, teaches her that unconditional love is possible. While her romantic love interest, Robin is killed, Regina is still able to hold on to goodness because of her family.

At the end of the series, “The Evil Queen” has transformed into the “The Good Queen,” and is actually elected by everyone in Storybrooke to lead them. This is a pivotal moment for Regina because she spent most of her past forcing others to follow her commands. However, she is now fully accepted as a hero and is trusted because of her goodness and courage.

2

Dark Emma Swan

Emma Swan is known as “The Savior” and the main protagonist on the show. Even though she had trouble believing, she always tried to do what was right and when she becomes “Dark Emma Swan,” it was completely shocking. The twist was a role reversal for our favorite hero, which kept us on the edge of our seats.

Emma’s actions were to protect Regina from darkness, as she consumes the magic of “The Dark One.” Emma’s hair is now an icy white, as the darkness within her corrupts her, turning her into a fear-provoking villain. Emma is still conflicted, as she clearly cares about her loved ones, but she recognizes how strong the darkness is. She plans to sacrifice herself, but Hook intervenes and takes her place to save her.

Some honorable mentions before revealing my number one pick are:

Ingrid, the Snow Queen

Peter Pan

Black Fairy

Mother Gothel

Maleficent

Cruella De Vil

Cora Mills

Hades

Drizella

Doctor Facilier

1

Rumplestiltskin

It should be no surprise that my favorite villain has to be Rumplestiltskin. Insert his classic creepy laugh here “dearie.”Rumplestiltskin enjoys making deals and gaining power as a result. He always has something up his sleeve whether you are aware or not. If we look at a lot of the other villains mentioned, Rumple has played a role with almost all of them in some form or another. While he is consumed by the power of “The Dark One,” Mr. Gold is no stranger to concocting his own schemes as well to further his agenda.

What makes him a truly great villain is that he often goes unnoticed. However, he is the master puppeteer in many instances, which proves how powerful and dangerous he can be. While it initially seemed like Rumple could never be redeemed, his pure love for Belle changes his tune. Belle sees the good in him even when others see him as a monster or a “beast.” While Rumple does disappoint Belle along the way by giving in to the darkness, he desperately tries to be the man she wants him to be. However, Rumple does not fully redeem himself until the end of the series. Up until this point, we have seen signs of goodness within him, but he has always been too afraid to fully commit. Even in his past, he was called a coward and it seems like this has always come back to haunt him.

At the end of the series, Wish Rumple threatens everyone and Rumple finally realizes that he may not be able to be with Belle again after all. He puts aside the one thing he cares about more than anything in order to help his family and friends. When he sacrifices himself and gives his heart over to Nook, he has finally embraced the goodness that has been trying to surface for so long.

Rumple’s act is out of pure goodness and friendship and he can now finally earn the happy ending he has been searching for. In the afterlife, Rumple and Belle are together and will never be apart again.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to share some of your own thoughts and comments on your favorite villains from Once Upon a Time. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Happy Saturday TV fans! I felt a void not having a new episode of Once Upon a Time to discuss today, however; just because OUAT is over, it doesn’t mean we have to take a break from remembering our favorite moments and characters. After all, their stories will continue on and I am not about to close the book on them just yet. For today, I am going to be recapping and ranking the top 5 moments featuring my absolute favorite couple from OUAT season 7, Alice and Robin.Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the full season yet. Alice and Robin, also known as Tilly and Margot, possess a pure and beautiful love. Fans cannot help falling in love with these two, as they remind us what true love is all about. I’m talking the over-the-top feelings of butterflies in your stomach and smiling constantly for no reason at all. Alice/Tilly possesses a unique and quirky personality and Robin/Margot balances her out perfectly with her quick wit and calm nature. Both Alice and Robin have been searching for something or someone and they find exactly what they are looking for in each other. When Margot returns to Hyperion Heights, she and Tilly have an immediate chemistry that is not to be ignored. Their first date in Hyperion Heights is beyond adorable, including everything from a sugary treat almost as sweet as them, to an adventure in the bookstore. Both Alice and Robin have a strong sense of doing what’s right and supporting family and friends no matter what, which makes their relationship that much more powerful. As individual characters they are remarkable, but as a team they are truly something special.My top 5 moments featuring Alice and Robin from Once Upon a Time season 7 are:

5

“Nobin” and “Tower Girl.” (Moment from Season 7, episode 14)

In this episode, we get a glimpse at Alice and Robin’s very own “meet cute.” Robin points an arrow at Alice, who is spying on her father, Nook from afar. After Robin reveals the reasoning behind Nook’s new nickname, Alice playfully suggests that they call her “Nobin.”“Yea don’t call me that,” Robin says, clearly not a fan of her new nickname. In return, she calls Alice “Tower Girl,” and the two head off to find the troll that is destroying villages. Alice tries to defend the troll and explains that he is her friend, but Robin is determined to prove that she can live up to the legend of her father. The ship name for Alice and Robin is Mad Archer and I have to say that the name fits them perfectly, especially after watching them meet for the first time. Robin is ready to follow through and execute her plan, but Alice’s good nature and naivete intervenes. While Alice has pure intentions, her logic is not always spot on, but Robin ends up supporting her decision to protect the troll, even if it means standing up to everyone who gets in their way. And so their romance begins.

4

Alice and Robin are ready to save the day.(Moment from Season 7, episode 21)

After Wish Rumple begins re-writing the history of fairy-tales, Tilly/Alice gets a pain within her and recognizes immediately that something has gone terribly wrong. She and Margot/Robin go to Tiana for help. Tiana’s words to her people are inspiring and a magic bean is turned over to help Tilly and Margot get to their friends to save the day. Only they need to make a quick stop in Storybrooke first to get some help from some friends. This moment is important because it reminds us how selfless these two characters are. They have finally remembered who they are and their love for one another, but they put all of that on hold to go and save their family and friends. Alice and Robin’s actions may go unnoticed, but they are heroes.

3

Tilly/Alice and Margot/Robin go on a first date.(Moment from Season 7, episode 18)

Undeniable sparks have been flying between Tilly and Margot as soon as Margot arrives in Hyperion Heights. Margot even tells her mother, Zelena/Kelly that she wants to stay behind because of the potential budding romance. When Margot asks Tilly to join her for a day on the town, she means business, as she even comments that she is wearing lip gloss for the occasion. After a sugar-rushed treat, Tilly opens up and decides to show Margot her world. She brings her to a bookstore and tells her how much she loves it because she can go anywhere in the world without moving from this very spot. After Tilly has a minor breakdown, Margot reminds her that she is there for it all, including the bad. She gives Alice a bracelet similar to the ones she collected around the world and tells her, “This felt like an adventure to me.”

After Tilly courageously joined Gothel’s coven to protect her father’s life, she is now under some type of trance, trapped by the magic she is channeling. Rogers/Nook tells her that he will come back for her and save her and is ready to finally take a leap of faith. Rogers and Rumple seek out the help of Margot, desperately hoping that she can get through to Tilly before it is too late. Margot tries to talk Tilly out of this spell, recognizing that perhaps she is just having a really bad day and “maybe we can turn it into a good one.” Tilly refuses, however; and flings her in the air, shrinking her enemies into almost non-existence, as she remains trapped by the magic consuming her. When the curse is ultimately broken, Margot and Tilly remember themselves as Robin and Alice…or “Tower Girl.” When the words, “I told you we’d always know each other” are spoken, you can’t help feeling an overwhelming sense of warmth and love for these two characters being reunited. They share a kiss and embrace that is beyond transcendent. Their love for one another is so pure and good, proving that real love can truly conquer all.

1

Mad Archer gets their happy ending.(Moment from Season 7, episode 22)

Alice and Robin have an undeniable friendship and will do anything to protect the other. In an absolutely swoon-worthy moment, Robin asks Nook for his blessing to marry Alice and he happily agrees. Nook’s heart is severely weakened from the curse, but Robin reassures him, “no matter what you are walking Alice down that aisle!” While we don’t get to see the wedding for these two, I can only imagine how truly romantic it will be. I feel like they should travel the world and get married in front of a beautiful sunset, as they take on new adventures together. After all, these two beautiful and courageous women turn browsing a bookstore into an adventure. Either way, we know that they have earned their happily ever after,but their story is far from over.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post some of your own favorite moments featuring Mad Archer from OUATbelow in the comments section. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 22 series finale last night, Regina gets it right when she says, “This isn’t an ending. I hate endings because then your story’s done.” She reminds us that our stories are far from over and it’s not exactly a new beginning, as Emma suggested, but really more of “a second chance.” I have to say that this series finale was an emotional roller coaster for me, reminding me why I fell in love with this show in the first place and why it will always remain a favorite for me for years to come. Please note major spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.In last night’s series finale, “Leaving Storybrooke,” Alice and Robin try to find some help for their family and realize how complicated it is to explain time travel. Meanwhile, Rumple and Nook try to break out of the snow globe and Regina desperately attempts to get through to alter-ego Henry before he does something he can never take back. My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 22 series finale are:

5

“Our story was so short. Doesn’t make it any less epic.”

Alter-ego Henry has a lot of bottled up anger and plans on taking it out on Regina. He blames her for all of his problems and thinks that ending her life will bring him some kind of satisfaction. Regina doesn’t give up and reminds him that in another realm she is his mother. In a touching moment she says, “You’ve saved me. Please let me save you now.” Henry initially turns his mother away, leaving her alone in a prison cell. While Regina is dreaming, Robin visits her, as he is always still in her heart. She tells him how much she has missed him and explains she may be joining him. Regina clearly remembers being a villain and starts to think that maybe this is what she deserves. However, the goodness in her is articulated by Robin, who tells her that she was able to move her dark actions to the light and that was all because of her. He tells her that “her life is proof that no one’s path is set,” foreshadowing some of the events to occur later on. Robin provides Regina with the strength she needs when it seems like the world is against her. When he tells her how epic their love was, I have to admit that the tears already started coming. While it seems beyond unfair that these two cannot be together, Robin will always be in Regina’s heart, reminding her that her new path is one of goodness and love.

4

Mad Archer gets their happy ending.

While I was initially hesitant about all of the changes in season 7, Mad Archer always kept me smiling and cheering for them. Alice and Robin are beyond adorable and their love is pure and innocent. They have an undeniable friendship and will do anything to protect the other. In an absolutely swoon-worthy moment, Robin asks Nook for his blessing to marry Alice and he happily agrees. Nook’s heart is severely weakened from the curse, but Robin reassures him, “no matter what you are walking Alice down that aisle!” While we don’t get to see the wedding for these two, I am hoping that a spin-off or special may be in their future? If not, it is definitely something to consider as these two beautiful and courageous women turn browsing a bookstore into an adventure. Who wouldn’t want to watch these two lovelies take on the world? Either way, we know that they have earned their happily ever after and they are responsible for saving Nook and the others from the snow globe, proving that they can be quite resourceful and convincing. Of course they do have an assist from the absolutely fabulous Zelena, who doesn’t turn away from an opportunity to take a Selfie or to help her daughter from the future. While they may have unintentionally angered Grumpy after destroying his lunch, one can’t help but fall in love with these two, as they will stop at nothing to protect the ones they love. Their awkwardness makes them that much more adorable, proving that these two are truly meant for one another. Well deserved Mad Archer!

3

“We heard you needed some help.”

After breaking out of the snow globe, Henry rushes off to save his mother, Regina. He runs into a little trouble on the way and is saved by his grandparents, Snow White and Prince Charming! While I was expecting them to turn up sooner or later, I was squealing and cheering for two of my favorite characters. Snow and Charming bring together a round table to discuss their plan of action and look around them to see friends who used to be enemies, a new generation, and new friends who remind them of old friends, allowing Nook to take his rightful place at the table. They learn that Wish Rumple’s plan is to use alter-ego Henry’s emotions against him so that he can cast a spell that will trap every single hero in their own portal or prison of loneliness. He tests the spell out on poor Blue who doesn’t even really get a chance to interrupt, but it’s clear that this fate ends with all of our favorite characters winding up alone. Snow White explains that they need to remind everyone not to lose hope and that they just have to believe to succeed. While Snow White is certainly keeping a positive attitude here, Wish Rumple is ready to unleash his spell on every hero who has ever gotten in his way.

2

“A weak coward will not be the Rumplestiltskin the world remembers.”

Rumple refuses to let Wish Rumple win. As the portals are all opened, Regina finally gets through to alter-ego Henry and ends the initial threat. However, Wish Rumple is not about to give up that easily. Our Rumple explains that he has evolved and is ready to do what’s right. He even calls Wish Rumple “crocodile!” He knows that he will be giving up his chance to see Belle again, but is finally ready to embrace the goodness that has been trying to surface for so long. It’s about time. Rumple makes the ultimate sacrifice and rips out his own heart. This destroys Wish Rumple and he gives his heart to Nook who is dying after holding on to Alice so she wouldn’t go through the portal. The curse between Nook and Alice is broken and Nook is healed. Earlier Rumple revealed to Nook, “you were the closest thing I ever had to a friend,” which is heartwarming enough, but when Rumple sacrifices his own heart to save his dear friend, his goodness has finally shined through. Rumple is gone but not forgotten and Regina thanks him for saving them and whispers to him that he does deserve his happy ending. Belle is waiting for Rumple in the afterlife and the reunion between these two is simply beautiful. They share a kiss and fade away to their next adventure. Even though Rumple is gone, his story will live on and he is not alone anymore. Robin’s earlier words to Regina about no one’s path being set come true here, proving that the greatest of all villains can become a hero one can be proud of.

1

“I now crown you The Good Queen.”

After the threat with Wish Rumple is finally over, Regina recognizes that they still need to figure out how to get everyone back to their right time and place. However, she suddenly has a better idea and realizes that they need to cast one more curse. Only this time everyone will willingly offer up a small piece of their heart for it to work. The magic can bring everyone together, allowing all of the realms to exist in Storybrooke. Regina talks about Storybrooke being a secret place tucked away in a forgotten corner in Maine and that’s what fairy-tales are. They are secretly tucked away under our bed or on our bookshelf and it’s up to us to dust them off and discover mystery and adventure with each new story. All of the pages come together to make a true collection and to bring together our favorite characters, opening our eyes to the unimaginable. They give us something to believe in and everyone believes in Regina right now after she is able to successfully bring them all together. Regina is the new elected ruler to her surprise and everyone is here to support her. The Evil Queen has truly become “The Good Queen.” Emma rushes in fashionably late with Hook and their baby, Hope, bringing cheers to OUAT fans everywhere. After Regina talks about this being “a second chance” rather than an ending, she brings us back to all of the moments that made us cheer, laugh, and cry. She says, “I refuse to believe there won’t be more adventures, more love, more family, and yes there will be more loss because that’s just a part of life and in the end we can get past it all with hope.” While she speaks these words that really resonate with all of us, we flash back to some of those pivotal moments in Once Upon a Time, providing us with the perfect blend of nostalgia and closure.

The series ends with us leaving Storybrooke and takes a moment to pass by the yellow bug and some of our favorite places in town, but it’s not goodbye. We can always go back to Storybrooke anytime we want. Our favorite characters still have untold stories that will continue on as long as we keep believing in them and passing them on to the next generation. We all need something to believe in and OUAT truly sparked this in all of us, immersing us in a world filled with endless possibilities. No one’s story is set in stone and we all have the chance to spread goodness to those people we love and to those people who may have some trouble believing. It’s up to us to never give up and to continue to believe in magic and love, which will keep us strong even when the days don’t shine as brightly. Thank you Once Upon a Timefor giving us fans seven years of magic that will never be forgotten.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time in the comments section below. Thanks for reading and happy viewing!

After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 21 last night, Henry talks about the importance of finding one’s happy ending the right way. Unfortunately not everyone shares this belief, which we quickly learn during the first half of the series finale. While sometimes patience, hope, and good deeds can be enough to fulfill our days, some characters are not able to overcome the overwhelming sense of defeat and loneliness within them. Perhaps we all have the potential to become a villain, only we surround ourselves with people we love and things that make us happy to remind us to stay on a good path. It’s hard not to be sympathetic to those who wander off the path, however, which can lead to darkness. While these villains may not realize the damage that they are causing before it’s too late, it’s up to the heroes still existing to fight for good to prevail. And it’s also important to know when to ask for help, as none of us are in this alone. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.In last night’s episode, “Homecoming,” wish Rumple pays Henry a visit and offers him a deal. Meanwhile, Rogers/Nook promises Tilly/Alice that he will find a way for their own curse to be broken, Tiana/Sabine has doubts about her purpose, and Rumple takes on the greatest enemy he will ever face…himself. My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 21 are:

5

Wish Rumple threatens Henry.

Just as the curse is broken and everyone’s memory is restored, it seems like our happy ending is right around the corner. Only there is one more test that everyone must face in order to obtain it. Henry is beyond happy to be reunited with his wife, Ella and his daughter, Lucy, but wish Rumple takes advantage of his love for them and traps them in the wish realm. He threatens Henry and explains that he will destroy his family unless he retrieves the Dark One’s dagger and brings it to him. Henry finds reinforcements when he goes to Regina, Rumple, and Nook for help. Regina reminds him that “we don’t negotiate with villains” and talks about the importance of sticking by your family and protecting it no matter what. They decide to go into the wish realm to save Ella and Lucy, using Alice’s cracked looking glass as a portal. While they do not really know what to expect on the other side of the portal, they are ready to face whatever or whoever gets in their way, including some familiar faces.

4

Old friends and enemies return.

In wish realm, Henry and the others come across several familiar faces that will have OUAT fans everywhere cheering. While the end of the show is near, it’s important that we look back on all of our past friends and enemies who have shaped the show and made it what it is today. While Nook gets some help from our old friend, Ariel, other not so friendly faces are lurking behind the corner. Peter Pan warns them as soon as they get to wish realm and Cruella holds on to her fur coat, but not her hair color unfortunately, as Henry later strips the black from her hair, which is the ink he needs for the Author’s Pen. While we know more familiar faces will be surfacing in next week’s series finale, these characters are not to be forgotten, as they provide us with a reminder and a sense of nostalgia of the earlier days of Once Upon a Time.

3

Rumple vs Rumple.

Rumple decides to have a talk with himself. He explains that he doesn’t want to force the dagger on an innocent and is happy to hand it over to him. He thinks that wish Rumple could be the loophole he has been searching for all along. But is he really ready to make a deal with his darker self? Rumple explains that the one enemy he can never defeat is himself and is ready to get the happy ending he has been searching for. However, Rumple has a trick up his sleeve, as he uses the squid ink Ariel gave them to trap him. Rumple is ready to defeat his alter-ego, but Regina walks in and wish Rumple escapes. While we know it can’t be that easy to defeat wish Rumple, it’s important that our Rumple is taking the necessary steps to finally do the right thing after repeating his mistakes over and over. Rumple truly loves Belle but is willing to sacrifice reuniting with her if it means saving his family. This transformation reminds us that it’s never too late to do the right thing and that having people in our lives who support us can make all the difference.

2

“None of my wishes came true.”

Like our version of Rumple, wish Rumple has not revealed his true intentions up front. We learn that he has another agenda and it involves Henry. Henry’s emotions are running high, as he is worried about the safety of his family, clouding his good judgment in the process. He makes the rash decision to obtain the Author’s Pen and is warned by the author to use it to record, but not create. Wish Rumple has been after the Author’s Pen this entire time and uses wish realm Henry as his instrument of destruction. Even though our version of Henry turned down Rumple’s deal, wish realm Henry never had a single wish come true and is broken from this. He is desperate enough to make a deal with wish Rumple and to rewrite history. We know this can be extremely dangerous and it’s up to our favorite heroes to put a stop to this before all of their stories are rewritten. After all, words are very powerful, but the intent behind them is what gives them their true meaning.

1

Tilly and Margot are ready to save the day.

Tilly/Alice gets a pain within her and recognizes immediately that something has gone terribly wrong. She and Margot/Robin go to Tiana for help. Tiana has been having doubts about her new role as a queen, but puts this aside when she stands in front of her people and asks them for help. Her words are inspiring and remind us that you don’t always have to possess magic in order to make a difference. Tiana’s words are enough and a magic bean is turned over to help Tilly and Margot get to their friends to save the day. Only they need to make a quick stop first to get some help from some friends. Next stop Storybrooke! I am beyond excited for the conclusion of the series finale next week, especially since some of our favorite characters will be returning. While it’s bitter sweet to see the ending finally arrive, I cannot wait to see how it all unfolds. How about you? Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time in the comments section below. Happy viewing!

After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 20 last night, Henry’s words really described what this series is all about. “That’s the thing about stories. They’re more than words. They live inside of us. They make us who we are. And as long as someone believes that…there will be magic.” When you think about Once Upon a Time as it draws close to the series finale next week, you immediately think about believing in the impossible. The fairy tales we grew up with sparked our own imagination and creativity, shaping who we have become even if we don’t always see it. Words can be more powerful than we realize, allowing our feelings and stories to come alive across the page. Even when this series ends, the stories will live on, reminding us of the importance of taking a leap of faith when the world seems to be quite mad. It provides us with an escape that can inspire hope, love, and adventure. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. In last night’s episode, “Is This Henry Mills?” Regina desperately tries to get Henry to believe again but is running out of ideas. Meanwhile, Rogers/Nook and Rumple recruit Margot to help save Tilly before it is too late and the ultimate villain is revealed. My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 20 are:

5

“Because I can be very convincing.”

While helping Jacinda and Lucy pack for their trip with Henry, Sabine/Tiana is worried about Drew. After Lucy reveals that the back-pack is from Drew, she finds a tarot card hidden inside. Lucy immediately knows that this means that Samdi/Dr. Facilier will have an idea about what’s going on. Jacinda and Sabine/Tiana go to confront Dr. Facilier who has nothing to hide at this point, recognizing that magic is about to resurface again. He opens the closet door and reveals Drew gagged and tied up and suggests that the ladies join him. While we know that Dr. Facilier’s ultimate goal is to obtain the Dark One’s dagger, what does he have to gain by holding these characters captive? Is it merely to prevent them from getting in the way or did he have something else in store for them? It looks like we may never find out, as Dr. Facilier’s own fate is about to take a cruel twist. I wonder if he saw that coming in the cards.

4

“I’ve got nothing left to lose so let’s do this.”

Even though Regina is having trouble getting Henry to believe again, she refuses to give up. She turns down Gothel’s offer to join her coven and chooses the side of humanity, proving once again that the Evil Queen has shed its wickedness and has embraced what it truly means to be a hero. Even though Regina does not have magic in this world, she is not about to let Gothel win. She stands up to her and faces her, but is wounded after Gothel attacks her. While Regina may not be the hero to take down Gothel, her will to stand against her is commendable.

3

“I’m not like you. You chose hate. But I choose love.”

After Tilly courageously joined Gothel’s coven to protect her father’s life, she is now under some type of trance, trapped by the magic she is channeling. Rogers/Nook tells her that he will come back for her and save her and is ready to finally take a leap of faith. Rumple reveals to him that it’s all real and Rogers/Nook is finally ready to accept this and listen. When he asks who he is from the other realm, Rumple says, “All you need to know right now is that you’re a survivor…Captain.” Rogers and Rumple seek out the help of Margot, desperately hoping that she can get through to Tilly before it is too late. We learn that after each witch sacrifices all of their power to the spell, they turn into a tree in the eternal grove and it’s only a matter of time before Tilly starts growing roots of her own. Margot tries to talk Tilly out of this, recognizing that perhaps she is just having a really bad day and “maybe we can turn it into a good one.” Tilly refuses, however; and flings her in the air, shrinking her enemies into almost non-existence, as she remains trapped by the magic consuming her. When the curse is ultimately broken, Margot and Tilly remember themselves as Robin and Alice…or “Tower Girl.” When the words, “I told you we’d always know each other” are spoken, you can’t help feeling an overwhelming sense of warmth and love for these two characters. Their love for one another is so pure and good, proving that real love can truly conquer all. This reunion is put on hold, however; as Gothel still remains to be a threat. Gothel tries to tell Alice that she is like her and will not be able to defeat her, but Alice has her father and Robin by her side. She chooses love and turns Gothel into a tree, hoping that she can grow into something beautiful again and ultimately find peace. The curse is broken and Alice can finally be reunited with her father again and with her true love, Robin. Well deserved!

2

“Don’t you want to believe?”

During the episode, we flash to another timeline where young Henry Mills is approaching graduation and deciding on whether or not he should leave Storybrooke or stay behind with his mother, Regina. Regina has some doubts about Henry leaving, but she puts her feelings aside because all she really wants is for him to be happy. Grown up Henry is still having trouble believing, even after he witnesses all of the magic around him. Regina tries a memory potion and even digs up the “Once Upon a Time” second book from Victoria’s grave, desperately trying to help him remember who he is and what he believes in. Nothing happens after all of these attempts and it seems like Henry’s belief may really be gone forever, as he is unable to deal with the grief of losing the family he thought he had. However, Henry is failing to realize that his family has been right in front of him this whole time. Regina tries to tell him that the curse is not just a land without magic, but that they were brought to a different time, bringing time travel into the mix, and bringing me back to Lostonce again. Henry looks at the adoption papers Regina left with him and decides to take a very own leap of faith of his own by calling the phone number listed. Lost fans everywhere will remember the memorable moment in the episode, “The Constant,” where Desmond makes a phone call to Penny that saves his life and helps him remember who he is. The connection he had to his love, Penny was enough to bring him back. In Once Upon a Time, Henry is about to experience something very similar. When he calls, he speaks to his younger self and provides him with some really great advice. The conversation causes his memories to come flashing back to him, as he finally remembers who he is. After Gothel attacks Regina, Henry rushes to her side and kisses her forehead, breaking the curse for good in a beautiful moment. It was true love’s kiss after all, but for the mother who sacrificed everything for him. Magic is back and so are the memories that had been hidden away for so long. Young Henry gets it absolutely right when he says that “Storybrooke will always be with me.” Not just with you Henry, but with all of us and it’s hard not to shed some tears as we approach the very end. However, even though it seems like our happy ending has finally arrived, there is one more twist left.

1

“Did you really think a wish realm could hold me?”

After the curse is broken, Rumple realizes that the dagger is gone and immediately jumps to the conclusion yet again that Dr. Facilier is responsible. Rumple is finally starting to realize that he may not be able to get back to Belle and he wants to focus his energy on the family he has here. He even hesitates and doesn’t kill Dr. Facilier when he has the chance and Dr. Facilier mocks him by telling him, “You’re a shadow of your former self.” Who said that words could never hurt you? Dr. Facilier is stabbed with the dagger and the Dark One is responsible. Rumple will literally need to face himself and destroy the evil of the Dark One once and for all, but is he powerful enough to do so? We know that some of our favorite characters will be returning for the series finale next week. I am beyond excited and can’t wait to see how the story finally ends. Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time in the comments section below. Thanks for reading and happy viewing!

After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 19 last night, Tilly got it absolutely right when she said that “it’s cruel really to be so close to happiness and kept so far away from it.” Revelations are finally breaking through the curse, however; but will our favorite characters get their chance at a happily ever after before the witches cast their spell? Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. In last night’s episode, “Flower Child,” we learn about Mother Gothel’s past and her motives. Meanwhile, Tilly finds out the truth about who her parents are and Lucy desperately looks for something that can save her father and bring her parents back together again. My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 19 are:

5

“Now you are the Mother. Remember what you were destined to blossom into.”

While it didn’t initially seem like Mother Gothel had any redeemable qualities, this glimpse into her past actually revealed a heartbreaking story filled with betrayal and loss. We learn that Gothel is a tree nymph and comes from a magical grove, but she is curious about humanity and wants to know what it’s like to be mortal. Gothel envies the pretty dresses the girls get to wear and the freedom they can explore, but lets her guard down when she is invited to teach some of her new mortal friends how to do magic. Gothel’s naivete prevents her from seeing the cruel and wicked intentions of her new “sisters,” who tell her she is an “abomination” and destroy her grove. Gothel is horrified to find her family dead and no longer feels like she belongs in any world. Gothel is not able to take her mother’s advice and turns her destiny of being the “Mother” of nature into a quest for vengeance against humanity. She recruits the first true member of her coven and it’s clear that she will not be finished until all of humanity pays for what they have done. While we know that Gothel must be stopped, this glimpse into her past allows us to understand why she became so cold and broken along the way, making her story that much more complicated. While we have seen other villains choose the path of good, Gothel only seems interested in furthering her revenge and confuses her coven with “family,” not fully grasping what this term actually means.

4

Lucy visits Dr. Facilier.

Lucy is not about to give up on her parents even though the magic that Dr. Facilier gave to Regina is gone. She asks if there is any more magic to help her father and proves to be “quite the blackmailer,” which amuses Dr. Facilier. He agrees to help her and explains that the first step is for her to find a symbol of Henry and Jacinda’s love. Dr. Facilier is not helping Lucy out of the mere goodness of his heart, however. He reveals that “a storm of witches is brewing” and that they will need magic to survive. Whatever his intentions are, he is willing to help and Lucy sets off to find a symbol. She goes through boxes of Jacinda’s old things and finds one box labeled “BL,” which means “Before Lucy.” In the box, she finds a bag from Granny’s Diner and for a minute I was worried that she might find some rotten food that Jacinda forgot about, but the broken glass slipper is inside, shocking both Jacinda and Lucy. While Jacinda tries to grasp the reality that she really is Cinderella, Lucy rushes off to Dr. Facilier so that her father can be saved.

3

“No matter how crazy…we’ll figure it out together.”

Gothel approaches Tilly and tells her that she is her mother. Tilly doesn’t welcome her with open arms, however; and tells her “you’re either a liar or a monster.” Gothel tries to feed her a story about wanting to change and looking for forgiveness, but Tilly walks away from Gothel and her false promises. She goes to the only real “family” she knows right now and Rogers/Nook tells her that they will figure it out together. Meanwhile, Gothel pays Margot a visit and takes some of her blood, refusing to abandon her plan now that she knows that Tilly contains the magic within her that will complete her coven.

2

“When I met you I loved you immediately…maybe because I already loved you.”

Henry and Jacinda have been getting closer and closer after realizing that Henry’s book might be real after all and that they did meet in another world in a fairy-tale. It’s surprising that these two haven’t shared a kiss yet, but they do hold out with perfect timing, as Dr. Facilier breaks the curse on Henry. The two finally kiss but Lucy is beyond disappointed when it doesn’t break the curse. Has Gothel’s magic interfered with true love’s kiss? Is there another way to break the curse and wake everyone up?

1

Tilly learns that Rogers is her father.

After Gothel takes some of Margot’s blood, she captures Rogers/Nook and lures Tilly to her. She tells her that she is her real family, but Tilly will not help her. She finally reveals that Rogers is her real father and offers her a choice. Tillly can join the coven or watch her father die. Even though Rogers tries to do the noble thing and tells Tilly not to give in, she cannot live in a world without her father. Tilly has felt alone and unwanted up until now and she finally has a chance at new love with Margot and old love with her father. She reluctantly joins hands with the coven and the spell is cast. Did she make the right decision? What has the coven unleashed? Will anyone be able to stop Gothel? Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time in the comments section below. Happy viewing!